Eskom Reports Reliable Power System Operation, Improved Energy Security

Strategic Insights -

Eskom, South Africa's electricity supplier, maintains that its power system continues to operate reliably, meeting the country's electricity demand effectively. The implementation of the Generation Recovery Plan has strengthened grid stability, improved operational efficiencies, and increased energy security. The year-to-date Energy Availability Factor (EAF) rose to 63.06%, a 0.04% improvement from last year's 63.02% for the same period. The EAF from 1 to 30 October 2025 increased to 65.9%, a notable 3.66% improvement driven by fewer unplanned outages and additional generation capacity.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Open-Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) load factor decreased further to 0.0001%, reflecting sustained efficiency gains, from 0.23% in the preceding week.
  • Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 1 was reconnected to the national grid on Wednesday following major scheduled maintenance, strengthening 24/7 baseload capacity and improving both the EAF and overall energy security.
  • The Unplanned Capability Loss Factor (UCLF) reduced to 21.78%, a significant 2.73% improvement from 24.51% recorded during the same period last year.
  • The Planned Capacity Loss Factor (PCLF) stands at 12.01%, slightly lower than the 12.87% recorded last year, aligning with Eskom's long-term maintenance schedule.
  • Between 24 and 30 October 2025, Eskom recorded an average of 8 768MW in unplanned outages, an improvement from 9 837MW during the same period last year.
  • Diesel expenditure was R0.005 million during the past week, down from R7.84 million during the same week last year, indicating a sharp reduction in diesel generation and a shift toward more cost-effective primary energy sources.

Statistics:

  • Energy Availability Factor (EAF) from 1 to 30 October 2025: 65.9%
  • Improvement in EAF from 1 to 30 October 2025 compared to the same period last year: 3.66%
  • Unplanned Capability Loss Factor (UCLF) from 1 to 30 October 2025: 21.78%
  • Planned Capacity Loss Factor (PCLF) from 1 to 30 October 2025: 12.01%
  • Diesel expenditure during the past week: R0.005 million
  • Diesel expenditure during the same week last year: R7.84 million
  • Average unplanned outages between 24 and 30 October 2025: 8 768MW
  • Average unplanned outages during the same period last year: 9 837MW

Sources:

  • SAnews.gov.za